Fourteen-year-old, Sylvia White, is a pioneer girl who lives with her father, Bernhard, in the late 1800's. Sylvia's mother, Sophia, died in childbirth, forcing Bernhard to raise his daughter alone. But, is it a normal, loving home?Emma Kimball, the school teacher, befriends Sylvia and suspects something is wrong. Newcomer, Patrick Ryan, takes an interest in Sylvia, and also believes she's in jeopardy. As Patrick and Sylvia grow closer danger arises, as Patrick's presence sends Bernhard into violent rages. Does Sylvia have a dirty little secret? Will Patrick's love for Sylvia put her in grave danger? Will she be rescued from the cellar . . . before it's too late?